Description
Mediterranean flavors dance through Greek chicken orzo power bowls, delivering a nutritious feast packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and zesty herbs combine seamlessly, inviting you to savor a delightful culinary journey in one satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (453 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Vegetables and Produce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chopped romaine or baby spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
Pasta, Dairy, and Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, halved
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
- ¼ cup olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for chicken)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice (for dressing)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for chicken)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for dressing)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the orzo by following package instructions, ensuring a perfect al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and allow to cool completely, spreading it out to release excess moisture.
- Create a vibrant marinade by combining olive oil, zesty lemon juice, minced garlic, fragrant oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Coat the chicken thoroughly, letting it absorb the Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
- Cook the marinated chicken over medium heat, either on a grill or in a skillet, rotating occasionally to achieve an even golden-brown exterior. Ensure the internal temperature reaches safe cooking point, approximately 5-7 minutes per side.
- While the chicken rests, craft a robust dressing by whisking together olive oil, tangy red wine vinegar, sharp Dijon mustard, crushed garlic, dried oregano, and seasoning until smooth and well-integrated.
- Construct the power bowls by creating a base layer of cooled orzo and fresh greens. Strategically arrange sliced chicken on top for visual appeal.
- Enhance the bowl with colorful Mediterranean ingredients: juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, sharp red onion, briny olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Generously drizzle the prepared dressing over the entire bowl, ensuring each ingredient gets a flavor boost. Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs for an additional aromatic touch.
- Serve immediately for optimal taste and texture, or refrigerate for a convenient make-ahead meal that maintains its vibrant character.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor penetration and tenderize meat.
- Use fresh herbs like oregano and parsley for maximum aromatic impact and brighter taste profile.
- Choose high-quality feta cheese for authentic Greek flavor and creamy texture in the bowl.
- Adjust dressing consistency by adding more olive oil or vinegar to suit personal preference and dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg